Frequently asked questions about TEC|BENCH

What is TEC|BENCH?

The idea behind TEC|BENCH is to improve standard hardware benchmarking by combining it with virtual product development methods. All information is provided in digital format and is thus permanently available to the user directly in their virtual development environment. Virtualisation also allows users to analyse a competitive product much more closely.

How does it differ from conventional benchmarking?

Data gathered during conventional benchmarking or data available in a database are also needed to generate TEC|BENCH models. This information is suitably contained in models in a highly compressed format. Information derived such as cross-sections can be produced from the TEC|BENCH model as required. The all-important step in TEC|BENCH, however, is that all details in the model can be varied and their influence on overall behaviour studied. The process can then be reproduced to show why a particular configuration was finally selected.

What scope does TEC|BENCH typically cover?

The scope of TEC|BENCH processes is based on the needs of the automotive industry. These range from complex components such as cylinder heads and bodies in white or fitted car bodies for NVH tests through to whole vehicles for crash and vehicle dynamics analyses.

Has TECOSIM carried out studies of electric vehicles?

Fully electric vehicles (BEV), vehicles which are fitted with an electric motor only and draw their energy from a battery in the vehicle, are not readily available yet. However, in principle, there is no reason why an electric vehicle cannot be studied. .

Does TECOSIM have experience with vehicles featuring CFRP bodies?

TECOSIM works with a method which enables specific vehicle component properties to be analysed.

Does TECOSIM have experience with vehicles featuring aluminium bodies?

As a general rule, aluminium components such as suspension strut supports or rear shelves are fitted to save weight and are thus incorporated into digital benchmarking. The combination between extruded sections, cast nodes and sheet panels used in modern aluminium structures mean that many components have a variable wall thickness which must be captured, documented and taken into account during modelling..

How can I download the software?

You cannot download the software; you will receive the package from us by email once you have completed the order.

What exactly does a TEC|BENCH model consist of?

Geometric accuracy is assured by measuring photogrammetric marks on which the 3D digitisation system is based. Measurement uncertainty is by all means present among manufacturing tolerances during this process, so production factors such as the deep drawing process or distortion in welded assemblies are also included. The accuracy of calculations for the TEC|BENCH model can be evaluated by making a comparison with structural test results obtained in advance. Suitable criteria can be used to determine to what extent they match. .

What happens to concealed components?

It varies and largely depends on the assignment. Although the interior components in an engine have no effect on a vehicle's crash behaviour, the reinforcement sheets built into the body do need to be taken into account. This requires the vehicle to be almost completely disassembled.

Isn't that a laborious process?

Yes, it is laborious and time-consuming. However, other steps to advance progress can be carried out at the same time. TEC|BENCH activities should therefore be incorporated into the development process at an early stage.

Do the components not become deformed when disassembled?

Although great care is taken during disassembly, it is not always possible to prevent components from deforming due to internal stress, for example. The geometric deviations that arise as a result can be corrected during further processing.

What data are recorded?

The required data are determined depending on the task. This means, on the one hand, that components which have no effect on rigidity are not recorded as a geometric element but as mass only; on the other hand, the wall thickness, material and joining technology are entered and documented in addition to the geometric shape for components relevant for rigidity. Key properties for special components are identified using specific tests, such as rubber bearing characteristics or an engine's inertia properties.

Where are vehicle, structure or component tests carried out?

Vehicle tests such as Crash tests or driving tests are carried out at renowned institutes. For structure or component tests, we work together with recognized service providers in the automotive industry. This can ensure that the commissioned test scopes are performed according to the current state of the art.

Which TEC|BENCH models are available for purchase?

A large number of different vehicle bodies and vehicle models have emerged in recent years. These include vehicles from many different segments – from microcars, compact-class vehicles and lower and upper-mid range vehicles through to SUVs, off-road vehicles and trucks. Let us know which vehicle segment and load case you are interested in and we can supply you with suitable models.

Isn't it a problem to generate TEC|BENCH models belonging to TECOSIM OEM clients?

We can understand that our OEM clients are afraid that their know-how will become public knowledge. However, for us, it is only natural that all data contained in TEC|BENCH models may be reproduced in the TEC|BENCH process. If we look it from a different perspective, TEC|BENCH also gives OEMs the opportunity to study vehicles by other manufacturers in even greater detail.

People at TECOSIM

Our solutions are always based on a conflict of objektives. We have intentionally added a new component to this conflict: sustainability.
Martin Westerwald, , Managing Director TECOSIM GmbH